What does a public relations officer do?
Public relations officers are responsible for managing the reputation of a company. You’ll write press releases, deal with press enquiries, and sometimes manage crises. Your job could include:
- planning PR campaigns and strategies
- monitoring the public and media's opinion of your client or employer
- writing and editing leaflets, brochures, press releases, speeches, newsletters, websites and social media
- representing the company at events such as press launches, news conferences, exhibitions, open days and sponsorship
- developing good working relationships with the media
- arranging for advertising or promotional films to be produced
- public speaking at presentations, conferences, or radio and TV interviews
You’ll need excellent communication skills to do this role.
What do I need to do to become a public relations officer?
There are no set qualifications to become a public relations officer. However having a degree in marketing or a related qualification is highly desirable. Some organisations may ask for you to have a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).
No specific A levels subjects are required, but relevant subjects include English, business and media. You need at least two A levels and 5 GCSESs (A-C) to apply for a degree.
Level 3 vocational courses are acceptable as an alternative for some public relations degrees. Relevant courses would include business and media. Check university entry requirements, as public relations degrees are often very popular and receive many applications.
Academic route
- A levels, such as English, business and media
Vocational route
Level 3 vocational courses, such as business and mediaDesirable qualifications
- Marketing degree
- Journalism degree
- CIPR qualification
Where to find out more
Where could I be working?
You could work in a company's in-house public relations (PR) department, or you might be an account executive at a consultancy that looks after PR for a number of clients. Sometimes you will be expected to do flexible working, such as on weekends and evenings.